'Portrait of Earnest Woman' by Unknown Artist (circa 1930s)

'Portrait of Earnest Woman', oil on board (c. 1930s) by unknown artist, most likely French. It's strange that this portrait was unsigned - we'll never know who created this painting. Discovered in the south of France, the quality and execution of the work is exemplary - there is an intangible something that speaks to the viewer but remains hard to describe. Why is this painting so special? Is it the serious gaze of the subject? Maybe it was a self-portrait? Maybe it didn't quite meet the artist's own expectations? Perhaps the subject was a lover who moved on? Whatever the case, we love it here in our gallery - the portrait oozes character; is deftly executed in autumnal colours -  and it certainly piques one's curiosity. Who is this intense, cerebral woman and why was she painted? Only the artist will know we suppose. One dealer commented that it reminded her of a portrait by Kees van Dongen (1877 - 1968). 

In good vintage condition commensurate with its age - it has minor blemishing in the paint and in the board itself but not affecting the overall impression of the work. Newly framed. Upon request a video clip of the work may be provided. Unsigned.

Dimensions with frame:

H 50 cm (19.7")

W 40 cm (15.7")

Dimensions without frame:

H 38 cm (15")

W 28 cm (11")